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Steps softly echoed. Soft moonlight shone down from above, lighting the cobblestone streets. Quiet chatter echoed as people finished their tasks and headed home for the evening. Building lanterns burned low, with dim yellow light filtering through the windows. A cool breeze blew. Eleni tilted her head forward, shifting her hood to cover her face more fully. Her eyes were a mix of spearmint and orange. Gradient ocean blue to orange hair rested around her shoulders and spilled out the front of the dark hood, connecting to the cloak that swirled around her form. A few feet ahead of Eleni walked her newfound “friends,” Lumine and her pixie-like companion, Paimon. The pair brightly chatted as they led her to a “nice restaurant.” The duo’s pale clothing almost glowed in the moonlight. Lumine’s dress fluttered as a particularly strong breeze blew by. Besides glancing back every so often to ensure Eleni still followed, Lumine left her to her own thoughts. Eleni’s brows furrowed as she tried to combat the bubble of anxiety growing in her gut as she followed.
When was the last time I spent an evening in recreation like this? Or just spent time around people in general? She wondered as she observed the emptying streets. Mondstadt, the city in which they currently resided, had changed greatly since the last time she’d been here. The buildings were old, but cared for. The winds were fresh with the smell of clear lakes and forests, and the residents were generally happy and pleasant.
Refocusing her attention, she observed the approaching building. Relatively small with just two stories, it stood with stone white walls and wooden support beams, accented by mint green roof tiles. A single lantern hung over the entryway with a sign reading: “Angel’s Share Tavern.” A boisterous caller stood next to the doorway, inviting passersby to enter the abode. Lumine greeted him with a wave and gestured for Eleni to join her as she opened the door where the cacophony of several customers clambered out from the opening. Suppressing a groan as her anxiety rose, Eleni joined Lumine and walked inside.
Low-lit lanterns dotted the hall leading to an open room with a giant chandelier of candles hanging from an open second floor lined with banisters for onlookers to watch the proceedings on the main level. The tavern was filled to the brim with all sorts of people, ranging from commonfolk, to knights, and even to a couple noblemen. Dishes, awards, heirlooms, and notices lined the walls. Lumine gently tugged her hand forward as she maneuvered through the thick crowd, aiming for the bar against the back wall. People brushed on all sides as loud voices and strong scents of sweat and alcohol filled Eleni’s senses. She shifted the hood further over her face, attempting to muffle the noise.
Paimon floated near Eleni. “Oh! Why did we have to come at such a busy time! If only we’d known and come earlier…” She bemoaned. But despite her shrill voice and placement near Eleni’s shoulder, her words were barely audible over the cacophony.
Finally they reached the bar, and behind it the bartender busily prepared drinks. His hair was a bright scarlet, long and unwieldy with only a ponytail to confine it. He wore a fine black coat with a fancy white shirt beneath, and yet seemed unbothered with the warm temperature. With quick practiced motions he finished the drink and slid it to the waiting customer, a blue-haired man seated at the bar with dark skin and fancy cool colored clothing. His loose, but elegant shirt shifted as he raised his hand in thanks, but the bartender had already moved on to the next request.
“Kaeya! Good to see you!” Lumine called out, waving to the blue-haired man as she slid into the stool next to him. Eleni followed suit as Kaeya returned the greeting with a grin and a twinkling eye. There was a dark eyepatch covering his right eye, along with dark blue bangs.
“My! Even the legendary Traveler and her companions are here! This must truly be a special occasion.” He smirked as he took a sip from his glass. Lumine huffed in amusement.
“Kaeya!” Paimon called. “Why are there so many people here?! Is there some sort of event, or is it always this busy?!” She exclaimed in minor distress as she threw her tiny hands in the air.
“Haha, I’m afraid there is an event going on this evening. You see, today just happens to be the anniversary of the foundation of the grand protectors of Mondstadt, the Knights of Favonius. There have been activities and celebrations throughout the day, with one final celebration to finish the day.”
Eleni inclined her head slightly. Knights of Favonius? That’s new.
“Ohhh, that makes sense.” Paimon nodded. “Well, congratulations to you Mr. Cavalry Captain!”
Eleni’s eyebrows raised slightly. Cavalry Captain? So he is someone of decently high standing... and yet Lumine and Paimon speak as though they were long-time friends, or equals .
Lumine’s smile brightened “I’m glad I returned-”
“Wait a moment!!” Paimon shouted, pointing towards the bartender. Lumine looked miffed at the interruption, but Paimon didn’t appear to notice.
“How on earth did you manage to get Diluc to host a party celebrating the Knights of Favonius?? He hates them!”
Kaeya stifled a cackle as he leaned back. “Oh believe me, it was not easy. I had to pull quite a few strings in order to make this happen.”
Diluc’s expression soured further. “You’re lucky I’m not kicking you out of this and every other establishment in the city,” he grumbled.
Kaeya’s grin widened in a mix of glee and mischief. “Aww, you wouldn’t do that to your dear old brother would you?”
Diluc huffed with doubt, and walked away to hand another customer his drink.
Kaeya chuckled, and then returned his attention to the group. “Now then, I do believe there is one new face I do not recognize… would you mind introducing your friend?”
Lumine straightened, remnants of amusement residing on her face. “Ah! Yes.” She turned towards Eleni, gesturing towards her. “This is Eleni, I met her in Enkanomiya. We saw each other often while exploring the ruins there, and she saved my life after I had a series of poor run-ins with… vishaps. Afterward, I agreed to let Eleni travel with me for now, as we both have matters to attend to in Sumeru. Oh, and she is mute, so she communicates through sign language.”
Kaeya nodded slowly, his eyes returning to Eleni. “Well, it is very nice to make your acquaintance Eleni, thank you for taking care of our dear friend while she was away.” As he spoke, he reached over and picked up Eleni's hand, then gently placed a kiss upon it.
Eleni grimaced as she flushed with embarrassment, and immediately focused on calming her face as Kaeya lifted his eye to meet hers. She focused on it, a shining mix of blue and purple and-
She stiffened in shock. While she had already registered his eye’s unique coloring before, the dim light and near-overwhelming atmosphere had prevented her from noticing one small but vital detail - his pupil was in the shape of a four-pointed star, a distinct sign that he hailed from Khanri’ah.
The last time she had seen Khanri’ahns was as they fled while their kingdom was destroyed. Crowds of people fleeing for their lives, screaming as stones and cubes of red rained down, shrieking as horrific dark monsters rushed in and-
“Eleni!”
She flinched, snatching back her arm and nearly falling off the stool as her mind rushed back to the present. She was panting lightly, and her limbs trembled almost imperceptibly. She paused, then lifted her head and observed the party around her. Though the surrounding crowd had appeared to not notice her brief lapse in presence, Paimon and Lumine gazed at her, concerned. Kaeya regarded her with a curious expression, his head cocked slightly in contemplation.
“Eleni? Are you alright? You zoned out for a few seconds there…” Lumine asked hesitantly.
Oh, right. She shook herself and straightened, nodding. ‘Yes I’m fine, thank you. I just got a little distracted…it's been a long time since I’ve been in such an overwhelming environment.’ She signed with her hands.
“Ahh…” Lumine nodded apologetically. Eleni returned her attention to Kaeya.
‘My apologies for my rudeness… it is a pleasure to meet you.’ She signed, meeting his eyes again. Does he even know sign language?
Kaeya waved his hand to the side. “No harm done. I hope you can enjoy your time in Mondstadt.”
I guess he does. Eleni smiled and nodded in return. With that, Kaeya returned his attention to Lumine saying, “Now, a little bird told me someone got to revisit Liyue during the Lantern Rite Celebration…”
Eleni zoned out as Lumine and Paimon excitedly described their adventures. She sighed softly. How annoying, to lose contact with reality like that, and in the middle of a greeting no less. She rested her elbow on the bar with her cheek in her awaiting hand. I hope this doesn’t become a common theme…
She jolted from her thoughts as a knight slammed his hand down on the bar next to her, wheezing at something funny from one of his friends. She twitched as her anxiety increased, every sense heightening. The laughs and conversations were too loud, too enveloping, too much. The rank smells of people and drink filling her nose as she tried to inhale deeply, everyone pressing too closely.
Ugh, stop it . Eleni swirled her fingers, making random patterns and shapes with her hands in an attempt to distract herself. Perhaps I have spent too long away from the public. Eleni sighed again, then returned her gaze towards her friends, still engaged in animated conversation with Kaeya and friends.
I wonder what a Khanri’ahn is doing out here in Mondstadt. I’m relieved to know that some of them survived that nightmare, but I’m curious to know how they recovered after such mass destruction… assuming there are more. She glanced at Kaeya again, who wore a mischievous smirk as he stage-whispered something to Paimon. Hmm, perhaps I’ll ask him. It may be a sensitive topic…but who knows when I’ll have another chance to gather information about this.
The evening continued in a similar fashion, with Lumine and Paimon sidelining Eleni as they greeted and socialized with different friends and acquaintances. By the end of the hour, the crowd level impossibly grew to bursting. Throughout it all, Eleni remained stoically at her barstool, ignoring the cacophony while waiting for an opportunity to speak to Kaeya.
Suddenly, Kaeya slipped into the seat next to her. “Another Death After Noon please,” he called to Diluc, who gave him a weary nod.
Perhaps I’m not the only one bothered by the crowd and noise. She paused, then leaned in to Kaeya, tapping his shoulder to get his attention. ‘Have you been enjoying your evening so far, Sir Kaeya? It looks like you’ve quite enjoyed it,’ she signed.
He turned toward her with a small grin, “Yes, yes it has. What a fine evening indeed. But tell me, have you enjoyed yours? I noticed you don’t seem too keen on leaving this barstool.”
She huffed nervously. ‘Ah, yes. I suppose it has been alright. I’m just unaccustomed to the crowd is all.’
He nodded. “There is indeed quite a large crowd here tonight. It is nearing time for the close of evening, so soon you will be freed from your suffering,” he smirked.
Eleni gave another silent laugh, as her gaze drifted around. No one was paying any attention to them.
‘There is something personal I would like to ask you,' she motioned with her hands.
Kaeya tilted his head in curiosity, “Oh?”
She paused, hesitating... Now’s the time . She returned her gaze to his. I’ll use the Khanri’ahn sign language, so perhaps he will see me as an ally.
‘Tell me, are you from Khanri’ah? Your pupils are in the shape of stars.’
Kaeya jerked back slightly with an expression of shock and fear crossing his face before he quickly schooled it into a neutral one. “I am,” he replied, also in the Khanri’ahn language. “How did you know that starry pupils are an indicator of my heritage?”
She inclined her head. Is that uncommon knowledge? I was under the impression most knew that trait. ‘I visited Khanri’ah once, however, that was a long time ago. Can you tell me how you survived and if there are more of you?’
His eyes narrowed slightly then returned to neutral. “I have been away for too long, so I’m afraid I cannot help you. My apologies.”
Disappointed, she looked away and motioned with common sign, ‘ I’m sorry for bothering you. Thank you for your time.’
He hesitated, then gave a short nod.
A few moments later, another Knight of Favonius wandered up, plopping himself down next to Kaeya with a cheery grin.
“Captain! What are you doing hanging out over here? You still haven’t told me about your grand adventure last night.”
Kaeya greeted his friend with a slap on the shoulder and proceeded to tell the tale.
Eleni turned away, scanning for Lumine and Paimon. At least I asked… She couldn’t spot them from this vantage point. Huffing in annoyance as more knights congregated nearby, she stood and walked toward the exit. I’m sure Paimon and Lumine wouldn’t mind if I slipped outside for a little.
Finally reaching the doorway, she hastily slipped out. But as she turned to close the door behind her, she noticed Diluc observing her departure, but thought nothing of it.
The door closed with a click, followed by instant relief. The cool breeze filled her lungs as she tilted up her head to glance at the stars. Though the streets lay empty, the noise from inside persisted. Promptly pivoting, she started walking around toward the back of the building. The dark path lit only by moonlight seemed to snuff out the noise. Finally, some peace and quiet.
So, Kaeya really didn’t want to talk about Khanri’ah. Perhaps I can get him to open up in a more private setting. Eleni leaned against the wall and frowned. How could he not know if there are any survivors? It is his country, and surely news of such a calamitous event would evoke the need to find the truth. Even if he’s been gone for a while, it doesn’t make sense that he-
Three rapid footsteps were her only warning before someone shoved her off the wall, knocking her to the ground. She grunted upon impact. Her attacker grabbed a wrist to pull it behind her, but before she could be trapped, Eleni quickly slipped the dagger from her belt with her free hand and slashed towards the dark form. Her attacker jerked back, releasing her, so she nimbly jumped to her feet crouching into a defensive position.
A tall figure charged again in a blur of black and red. Eleni slashed upwards towards the neck but a hand flew up, snatching her wrist and wrenching her forward, knocking the dagger out of her hand.
Swinging her sideways slamming her back against the wall, a muscular forearm shoved against her throat forcing her to stop struggling. Her attacker used the moment to seize both hands. Dark ruby eyes glared at her. Scarlet hair fell around a pale face. Eleni recognized her attacker to be Diluc.
“What are you doing here? Why are you here?” He growled.
Crap. I can’t sign! She winced as he pressed harder.
“Quit the act. Why are you here? What is your mission?”
She grimaced against the pain.
I don’t know what you are talking about. I have no mission. She tugged her hands against his, unable to communicate her thoughts.
His look darkened, and the hand around her wrists started to heat up at an unnaturally high rate, quickly approaching too hot to touch.
“I won’t ask again. You were communicating using signed Khanri’ahn with my brother. What is your intent in Mondstadt, or with Kaeya?”
She glared at him in angry confusion. What? Does he just think my lack of speech is a choice? What does Khanri’ah have to do with this? What is going on?
She jerked her hands against his again, shaking her head back and forth in a “no.”
“Wrong answer.” With that, the pressure on Eleni’s throat and the temperature around her wrists increased tenfold. Pain filled her mind as all her air was cut off by his forearm. She jerked her arms but his grip only tightened. She shifted and arched her back to try and get away but to no avail. Tears sprang up as her lungs screamed for air. No… come on! Weakly attempting to kick, spots clouded her vision and soon darkened.
Just before losing consciousness, something wooshed past, and knocked Diluc away. Eleni collapsed to the ground, gasping for air. Chest heaving, her vision slowly cleared. Quick steps approached, and Lumine stood in front of her. Eleni tilted her head back to see Lumine facing down Diluc.
“What the heck was that, Diluc?!” Lumine yelled. Her stance was defensive and furious.
Diluc responded, “I suspect this girl is an agent of Khanri’ah, and we both know they almost never have good intentions.”
“There are better ways to get information than by strangling her!”
Diluc rolled his eyes. “I wasn’t going to kill her. She clearly had information to give, and-”
“She saved my life,” Lumine interrupted coldly, “and she is my friend.”
“Just because someone helps you does not mean they have good intentions,” Diluc replied with a sigh.
While the two continued to argue, Eleni recovered her breath and carefully crouched to her feet, ignoring the protests of her wrists and throat. She subtly slipped out her bow, taking an arrow from her quiver, then quickly stood while drawing back, aiming straight at Diluc’s face.
Diluc tensed, poised to dodge.
Lumine soothed, “Eleni, please, put your bow down. I know you don’t trust him, but let's try and figure out what’s going on.”
Eleni shook her head. I won’t be made vulnerable around him.
“He’s my friend, and I trust him to talk this out now.” Lumine continued, turning her face towards Eleni’s.
Eleni remained focused on Diluc, firmly positioned to shoot.
“Eleni, please. Lower your bow. We,” she glanced pointedly at Diluc, “are going to sit down, and talk like civilized people, and figure out just what exactly is going on.”
Diluc’s expression soured, and Lumine scowled in turn.
“I mean it Diluc-”
“That sounds like a fine idea,” came a voice from behind.
Jolting, Eleni whipped her head while Lumine pivoted to see Kaeya strolling down the alleyway.
Lumine deadpanned, “Of course you’re also a part of this.”
Eleni stiffened. Shoot, I’m surrounded. Her eyes quickly flicked across her surroundings, searching for an escape. I can’t take on both brothers simultaneously, neither can I pick them off individually. Lumine would side with whoever I didn’t shoot and take me down within seconds. I can’t run with all three of them around me, and these walls are too smooth to climb.
Kaeya smirked. “The celebration is almost over, and soon the streets will be flooded with knights and guests alike heading home for the evening. Let's take this discussion somewhere a little more private, shall we? I am curious to know what our little friend has to say as well.” His eyes were cold and calculating, and his expression was sharp.
He was with Diluc from the beginning. Eleni realized. This man is dangerous.
Lumine sighed and nodded, turning towards Eleni and placing her hand on the other’s taut shoulder. “Come on, Eleni. Lower your bow, please,” she pleaded.
Eleni scanned the area again, then yielded. There is no escape from this, not now at least. It would be best to concede for now. She hesitated again, trembling. Even if Lumine is friends with the enemy, she obviously doesn’t want me hurt. Glowering at Diluc, Eleni slowly lowered her bow, relaxing her stance. She neither removed the arrow, nor put away her weapon.
Returning the angry stare, Diluc straightened.
“Well, come on,” Kaeya said cheerily, continuing down the alleyway toward Diluc. He scooped up Eleni’s discarded dagger as he went, passively inspecting it as he walked past the girls.
“I know a place not too far from here more suited for a little chat.” He inclined his head towards the alley opening, then led the way.
Eleni hesitated, and Lumine tugged on Eleni’s shoulder. Shaking herself and straightening, she trailed behind cautiously.
Grumbling to himself, Diluc moved to walk in step with Kaeya, glancing back to ensure the two women followed.
Eleni’s wrists and throat throbbed, and her entire body remained tense as she walked. However, she refused to release her hold on the bow and arrow.
Lumine nudged her lightly, “Hey, it’s going to be alright.” She gave a small smile, which Eleni ignored. “I know you haven’t had the best first impression…”
Eleni glared daggers at her, shifting the bow and signing, ‘ He just strangled me and burned my wrists!’
Lumine winced, but pressed on, “But really, they’re good people. You just have to get to know them.”
Eleni scowled. ‘Not likely.’